Ancient Egypt Enthusiast Russell Pursues Passion Against All Odds

Meet Catholic Homes’ Home Care client, Russell Decke (JP), a former senior hotel manager whose unwavering passion for ancient Egypt has endured for nearly seven decades. Since he stumbled upon this captivating world in a library at the tender age of five, Russell's fascination with the costumes and statues of ancient Egypt has only grown stronger.

“I was just fascinated by the costumes and the statues…my first interest flourished years later as an adult when I went to a Tutankhamun exhibition at the art gallery in Perth,” said Russell.

Russell became an enthusiastic collector, adorning his home with a wide array of Egyptian artifacts and art, both genuine and reproduction pieces.

Now, as Russell prepares to downsize his extensive collection, he plans to keep a few cherished items close to his heart—a life-size sarcophagus, a piece of pottery from Cleopatra's bathing pool, and a stone from the hallowed floors of the Valley of the Kings.

In 2009, Russell's childhood dream came true as he embarked on a journey to the fabled land of the Nile Valley. This ancient realm, with its rich history spanning over 5,000 years, bewitched him with its monumental pyramids, majestic statues, and awe-inspiring temples built by mighty pharaohs and queens.

During his explorations, Russell discovered an intriguing fact that often eludes many. “What a lot of people don’t realise is that there were seven Cleopatras!” Russell said.

Through a fortuitous encounter, Russell found himself attending captivating historical presentations and soon became the longest-serving president and a life member of the esteemed Ancient Egypt Society of WA. Collaborating with his committee, he organised a group trip to Egypt, where he marvelled at the astounding wonders in Cairo, Alexandria, Amarna, and Abu Simbel. To his delight, fate granted him the opportunity to meet the eminent Egyptologist, Zahi Hawass. Russell also had the pleasure of crossing paths with the renowned Australian Egyptophile, Ian 'Molly' Meldrum, on several occasions.

Despite having his career in hotel management curtailed by osteoarthritis, Russell's ardour for the ancient world remains undiminished. His self-taught expertise and passion for ancient Egypt caught the attention of a cruise ship PR agent, who arranged for him to deliver captivating presentations during more than 40 cruises.

Now, Russell along with his partner Pam, hope to one day visit the grandiose Giza Museum, a monumental $1.5 billion archaeological institution. This awe-inspiring museum showcases the magnificent treasures of King Tutankhamun to the public for the first time since their discovery in 1922.

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